Thursday, June 8, 2017

Sharing My Story at a Women's Ministry Event

Summer time. Many people get out of town to avoid the intense heat of Phoenix. But there are always some of us still around, looking forward to getting together with friends.

Last evening I was speaking at a women's ministry event at Discovery Pointe Church in Peoria, Arizona. I'd been invited by my good friend Helen. I was asked to share on the topic of "How to be Content Despite Challenging Circumstances". Since I've had much experience with that ...I agreed.

About 60 women gathered around tables decorated with the summer theme. Pizza, salad and bite sized individual desserts were served. A hostess was assigned to each table as questions were posed for the group. This encouraged women to open up and share.

I love meeting new friends and seeing a few of my old (not age that is). I've known Helen and Anna May for years. And Heidi is the teacher I worked with for four years at my school. I was thrilled that she attended and even grabbed my camera to take a few photos.

I loved meeting Maria who is a fellow New Yorker. And then there was Roxanne who hosted our table. Susan, Marilyn and Debra were several other women who were so welcoming to me.

I shared my testimony. God is so good and so patient. How thankful I am that He never left me. He brought people into my life at just the right time. He gave me a dream that changed my life. The secret that enables me to be content no matter what the circumstances is my personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

One of my favorite Bible verses is Isaiah 41:10:

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

I mentioned the book I've been working on for the last few years. Many of the women were interested and wrote down their emails so I could notify them when I finally completed it. Oh boy, now I really need to get going!!!!!

One of the sweetest surprises I received (besides the hugs and kind words) was a plastic bag filled with notes from many of the women. I didn't get to open it until this morning.

Here are just a few of the notes:

"I really enjoyed your testimonial. I was not planning to come tonight but I am really glad I did. You have inspired me to start reading my Bible in the morning before my day begins and fill my cup."

"Your story was inspirational. It gives me strength and encouragement to tell my own testimony."

"Thank you for reminding me to spend time with Jesus."

"Thank you Debbie for showing us how faithful our Heavenly Father is."

When I got home, Greg asked me what the women got out of my talk. Well, after reading the notes I'm so glad that I was able to point them to the only One who can provide true contentment no matter what our circumstances. And His name is JESUS.

11 comments:

To My Sister in Christ, let me start with Prov. 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. 26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness (my favorite point in Proverb 31 and so appropriate here).

So Debbie, to close for your stepping up for Christ as you did last night, let me conclude with (verses) 29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Thank you, Debbie, for sharing the speaking experience that many of us prayed about for you! You look wonderful and I'm sure you inspired every one of those women with your steady, powerful faith in Jesus. I always tell you, you come across as the "real deal" because you sincerely are! Hugs, Debbie.

Hi Debbie,It's good to visit with you again....I hope you are doing well and it looks like from your speaking engagement last night you are doing great. God will bless you abundantly for sharing your time with those ladies and giving all the honor and glory to Him....Hugs...

Good to hear from you sister Debbie! I'm so glad to hear you finally completed the book you have been working on! Always in God's perfect time! I haven't been blogging as much too since I stopped working from corrections and have been enjoying my time with my family. I just occasionally log in once in a while. I pray your book will minister to those who might have similar struggles and know that they can always have victory from the Lord. He is faithful. No! I don't have FB acct. because of my work & that of my hubby's. Stay strong in the Lord's mighty power no matter what comes your way as you launch this book.God bless & protect you.

Thanks for your personal marvelous posting! I really enjoyed reading it, you will be a great author. I will always bookmark your blog and will often come back very soon. I want to encourage that you continue your great writing, have a nice weekend!